[Paul F]

Excellent point Maurice. Everyone should have the opportunity to travel. It is the most effective method of broadening people's view and breaking down barriers and prejudices.

What always impresses me when I travel internationally, is how knowledgeable the rest of the world is about the entire world, how ignorant Americans are about the world, and how self-absorbed we are.

I don't think America needs anymore reasons to be proud of itself. If you lack confidence in who we are and what America is, then do some international travel, and you will come back kissing the ground and be prouder than ever.

I find this post a desperate plea for confirmation of some sort. 'America is great. We sent stuff to Chile.' Are we really that insecure that we have to make commentary about how wonderful America is because some can-do was sent to some miners? Really?